Criminal charges loom over police commissioner

THE Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC) has remained tight lipped over claims that Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola faced imminent arrest, saying it could not discuss any investigation.

- MANYANE MANYANE

This was despite a Whatsapp message, which is said to be from sources close to the investigation, alleging that the IDAC has obtained a warrant of arrest against Masemola. The police chief was alleged to have abused the slush funds from the secret service account of crime intelligence and purchased two properties in Pretoria and Midrand, without adhering to proper procedures.

It has been claimed that Masemola conspired with Lieutenant-General Dumisani Khumalo, head of crime intelligence, to acquire the properties.

EFF leader Julius Malema last month said a warrant of arrest was issued against Masemola but a press briefing held by KZN police commissioner, Lieutenant-General Nhlamhla Mkhwanazi, who blew the whistle about infiltration within the law enforcement, led to the postponement of the alleged arrest.

Malema claimed that Masemola conspired with Khumalo, who was arrested for fraud and corruption related to the purchase of a boutique hotel in Pretoria North, reportedly acquired for about R22.7 million, and a commercial building in Durban, valued at R22.8m.